Iran Expands National Welfare Program, Empowers Border Trade Amid New Economic Initiatives
Tehran, Iran – Iran’s government has unveiled a comprehensive set of economic and social welfare measures, signaling a renewed focus on supporting citizens and stimulating regional trade. Ahmad Meidari, the Minister of Cooperatives, Labor, and Social Welfare, announced the launch of the second phase of a vital commodity voucher program and significant initiatives to bolster banking infrastructure and empower border provinces for enhanced commerce.
Nationwide Commodity Voucher Program Enters New Phase
Minister Meidari confirmed that the second phase of the national commodity voucher program, designed to ensure citizens’ access to essential goods, will commence on February 4th (15th of Bahman). A key feature of this new phase is the expanded “in-kind method,” which allows beneficiaries to directly acquire goods using their vouchers. The government has leveraged extensive private sector partnerships to establish a robust infrastructure capable of ensuring nationwide delivery for this method. Beneficiaries will also have the flexibility to opt out if they prefer. Meidari underscored the timely provision of resources for the program and assured the public of an abundant supply of goods, emphasizing the program’s smooth operational flow. He also highlighted the significant infrastructure developed for the in-kind method, attracting private sector interest in distributing goods at reasonable prices across the country, with specific product offerings to be announced subsequently.
Strengthening Financial Institutions for Economic Growth
In a related announcement, Minister Meidari revealed a substantial capital increase for Bank Refah, boosting its lending capacity by 90 trillion Tomans. This strategic move aims to fortify the bank’s role in supporting economic activities and providing financial services to a broader segment of the population, thereby contributing to national economic stability.
Empowering Border Provinces for Enhanced Trade
Further underscoring the government’s commitment to regional development, Minister Meidari disclosed that a recent meeting with the President resulted in significant empowerment for border provinces. These provinces will now have the expanded authority to import goods through barter agreements, in addition to conventional trade methods. This policy initiative is expected to boost regional economies, diversify trade channels, and foster stronger economic ties with neighboring countries.
The collective measures underscore the Iranian government’s proactive approach to enhancing social welfare, strengthening economic infrastructure, and promoting balanced regional development through innovative policies and strategic partnerships.
